Prepare to revolutionize your side dish game with a mouthwatering twist on classic mashed potatoes that will make your taste buds dance and your body thank you! This Thyme Mashed Cauliflower with Roasted Garlic is not just a recipe – it's a culinary magic trick that transforms a humble vegetable into a creamy, luxurious masterpiece that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Whether you're a health-conscious foodie or simply looking to add some excitement to your dinner plate, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, chopped
- 1 bulb garlic, roasted
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the top off the garlic bulb, exposing the cloves. Drizzle with olive oil and wrap in aluminum foil.
- Roast the garlic in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes until the cloves are soft and golden brown.
- While garlic is roasting, chop the cauliflower into uniform florets to ensure even cooking.
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil. Add cauliflower florets and cook for 8-10 minutes until tender when pierced with a fork.
- Drain the cauliflower thoroughly in a colander, shaking to remove excess water.
- Remove roasted garlic from the oven and let cool slightly. Squeeze the soft roasted cloves from their skins.
- In a food processor or with a hand masher, combine cooked cauliflower, roasted garlic, butter, and fresh thyme.
- Mash or pulse until smooth and creamy, adding salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with additional fresh thyme leaves if desired, and serve hot.
Tips
- Roasting the garlic is crucial – take your time and don't rush this step. The slow roasting brings out a deep, sweet, and mellow flavor that transforms the entire dish.
- Make sure to drain the cauliflower completely to avoid a watery mash. Use a colander and give it a good shake to remove excess moisture.
- For the smoothest texture, use a food processor. If you prefer a more rustic feel, a hand masher works great too – just embrace those slight texture variations!
- Don't be afraid to customize! Try adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, a dash of smoked paprika, or some crispy bacon bits for extra flavor.
- If you're watching calories, you can substitute the butter with olive oil or a lighter butter alternative without losing too much flavor.
- Fresh thyme makes a huge difference – if possible, use fresh herbs instead of dried for a more vibrant taste.
- Serve immediately while hot for the best texture and flavor. If you need to reheat, do so gently to maintain the creamy consistency.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 98kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 15mg
